Dominica is seeking to expand its presence in the international marine tourism market through plans for a modern marina in Portsmouth, a development President Sylvanie Burton says can help unlock new economic opportunities while strengthening the country’s blue economy.
In her address to Parliament, President Burton identified the proposed marina as one of several major investments aimed at diversifying Dominica’s tourism sector and positioning the island to benefit from growing demand for yacht and luxury tourism experiences.
Modern marina facilities, she said, would increase Dominica’s attractiveness to the yacht and luxury tourism sectors while creating opportunities for local businesses and employment.
Economic benefits are also expected to extend to communities surrounding the development.
President Burton further stated that the proposed investment would complement the experiences already offered on the island, “including diving and whale watching.”
She pointed to significant growth in yacht arrivals in recent years as evidence of the sector’s potential.
According to her, “The development forms part of a broader strategy to ensure Dominica remains competitive as global tourism evolves while protecting the environmental and natural qualities that distinguish the country.”
She also highlighted the Roseau Valley Cable Car project as another major tourism investment.
Upon completion, the Cable Car is expected to provide access to the Boiling Lake and establish Dominica as home to what the President described as the world’s longest detachable monocable cable car system.
President Burton said the Marina and Cable Car developments reflect “a wider national vision centred on innovation, economic opportunity, resilience and improved well-being.”
